December 2012 Research Institute Thought leadership from Credit Suisse Research and the world’s foremost experts The shale revolution THE SHALE REVOLUTION_2 Contents 03 Introduction: The shale revolution 04 The shale revolution: A game changer 08 Unconventional gas supply in the USA 12 China: Security of supply 18 Oil’s shale shake up 20 Key questions on shale oil growth prospects 22 Coal – the biggest loser? 28 Providing the infrastructure 32 Sector implications 35 Authors / Disclaimer / Imprint X0597 X0597 RI E ST /A COM . ISTOCKPHOTO : For more information, please contact: PHOTO A, I Richard Kersley, Head of Global Securities AL Research Product, Credit Suisse STPH /WE Investment Banking, COM .
[email protected] Michael O’Sullivan, Head of Portfolio ISTOCKPHOTO Strategy & Thematic Research, : Credit Suisse Private Banking RPHOTO michael.o’
[email protected] VE CO THE SHALE REVOLUTION_3 Introduction The shale revolution The global unconventional shale boom is arguably one of the biggest technol- ogy breakthroughs in decades. What started in a field in Texas has turned into a worldwide phenomenon, with ramifications spreading across a wide range of countries, commodities and industries. The high cost of energy is once again stimulating the search for new energy supplies, alternative fuels and efficiency gains, with technology as always at the foreground of new developments. While the full impact of this “game changing” revolution is yet to fully play out, it is clear that significant effects are already underway. In this report, we explore the highly interrelated nature of the global energy system. In parallel with this report, our investment banking research department is publishing a more detailed study of the theme and its impact, reflecting the work of more than forty analysts.